5 things to have next to you when completing the FAFSA

Completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first major step in determining how you will pay for college. Before you begin you should gather the following required information to make sure you aren’t scrambling to find it once you file.

5 Things To Have On Hand:

Social Security Numbers for you and your parents(Tip: If you’re not a U.S. citizen, your Alien Registration Number or permanent resident card)

Your driver’s license number if you have one

W-2s and tax returns for you and your parents(Tip: You may be able to transfer your tax information using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool on the FAFSA website.)

Bank statements, account balances, and investment information

Untaxed income records for the previous year(Tip: This could include social security income, child support, veterans benefits, etc.)

Do I really need my parents’ information?

More than likely, yes, unless you can be considered an independent student. According to the Office of Federal Student aid, federal student aid programs are based on the concept that it is primarily your and your family’s responsibility to pay for your education. There are several criteria involved in determining dependency, so if you think you might qualify as independent, you can check out this helpful information from the federal government: "What’s the difference between a dependent student and an independent student?".

College Access Counselor

If you have questions about completing your FAFSA or about the financial aid process and paying for college, Student Choice can help! Our College Access Counselor is available for a free one-on-one consultation via phone or email. Request your appointment now!